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Seasons in the Hollow #1
Winter Days & Historical Gays
Professor Daniel Carter’s only positive connection in everyday life is the one he has with his students. When their final field trip is compromised, he’ll do just about anything, even teaming up with the eternally cheerful Henry Mitchell, the curator of the local museum.
Daniel’s been ostracized by the town; his harmful divorce and manipulative ex-husband have made sure that he doesn’t feel welcome anymore in the only place that he’s ever been able to call home. Shunned by the community and the tight knit-group of people he once had, he finds solace in his work, his students and tales of romance throughout the ages. In real life, however, love is something that he keeps at arm’s length.
For Henry there is nothing more beautiful than love, any and all forms are worthy of being celebrated. Tasked with hosting a fundraiser to ensure that the museum can keep their doors open, he sets out to make sure it’s the brightest event the town has ever seen. Despite his wish for a romantic connection, he’s never quite found the one that can keep up with him. His boundless energy, positive attitude and larger than life personality tend to keep people away. That there’s more to him than what he tends to show doesn’t seem to matter.
Will they find their own love story worthy of being documented? Or will they shatter like ancient artifacts?
Daniel’s been ostracized by the town; his harmful divorce and manipulative ex-husband have made sure that he doesn’t feel welcome anymore in the only place that he’s ever been able to call home. Shunned by the community and the tight knit-group of people he once had, he finds solace in his work, his students and tales of romance throughout the ages. In real life, however, love is something that he keeps at arm’s length.
For Henry there is nothing more beautiful than love, any and all forms are worthy of being celebrated. Tasked with hosting a fundraiser to ensure that the museum can keep their doors open, he sets out to make sure it’s the brightest event the town has ever seen. Despite his wish for a romantic connection, he’s never quite found the one that can keep up with him. His boundless energy, positive attitude and larger than life personality tend to keep people away. That there’s more to him than what he tends to show doesn’t seem to matter.
Will they find their own love story worthy of being documented? Or will they shatter like ancient artifacts?
308 pages, Paperback
First published December 2, 2024
6 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Anouk de Rooij
7 books19 followersHi there! I'm Anouk, I write cozy queer romcoms. They're all stories with low angst, low spice, big feelings and found families.
I hope that, when you read them, it gives you just that little moment to escape from your day to day life.
You can find me on Instagram as well, @authoranoukderooij.
I hope that, when you read them, it gives you just that little moment to escape from your day to day life.
You can find me on Instagram as well, @authoranoukderooij.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 10, 2024
Oh my coziness!
This book is like a warm hug.
I didn't consider myself a small town books lover, but here we are. There's something special about those tight communities.
In this book we meet two wonderful men: history professor Daniel, who is ostracized by the town I claimed I loved one sentence ago, and a charming museum curator Henry, who is sunshine personified. Both history enthusiasts team up for a big event which is the only option to keep the museum open. Well, and maybe for a little bit of love. To keep hope alive.
Author managed to perfectly portray all the emotions and struggles. Daniel had more than enough reasons to be the way he was (no thanks to his shitty ex) and I liked the pacing between him and Henry. Daniel had to overcome his fears and it was really beautiful to watch him coming out of his shell.
Another thing in those tight communities: they feed on rumors. It was shown perfectly how horrible people can be, and it hurts. My heart broke for Daniel everytime he doubted himself and even more when he had to face all these people. Ugh! Good thing he found Henry and finally had someone in his corner.
Winter Days is a perfect read for a cozy evening! It focuses on several winter festivities, so you can pick up it whenever you want - these dark months will get definitely brighter.
This book is like a warm hug.
I didn't consider myself a small town books lover, but here we are. There's something special about those tight communities.
In this book we meet two wonderful men: history professor Daniel, who is ostracized by the town I claimed I loved one sentence ago, and a charming museum curator Henry, who is sunshine personified. Both history enthusiasts team up for a big event which is the only option to keep the museum open. Well, and maybe for a little bit of love. To keep hope alive.
Author managed to perfectly portray all the emotions and struggles. Daniel had more than enough reasons to be the way he was (no thanks to his shitty ex) and I liked the pacing between him and Henry. Daniel had to overcome his fears and it was really beautiful to watch him coming out of his shell.
Another thing in those tight communities: they feed on rumors. It was shown perfectly how horrible people can be, and it hurts. My heart broke for Daniel everytime he doubted himself and even more when he had to face all these people. Ugh! Good thing he found Henry and finally had someone in his corner.
Winter Days is a perfect read for a cozy evening! It focuses on several winter festivities, so you can pick up it whenever you want - these dark months will get definitely brighter.
December 1, 2024
He's sweet as apple pie, as radiant as the daisies that fill the town square and as dangerous as the summer sun.
------
Content warning: mentioned abus!ve relationship, mention broken bones, and violence (minor).
-----
First book of series. This can be read as a standalone.
First person POV. Dual POV
Spice: low spice, 1
Ending: *spoiler*..........HEA
------
Winter Days and Historical Gays is an mm romance about a history professor and museum curator who share a love for history and for each other. If you want a cozy read with low spice and some academic vibes, consider reading this.
I found Henry and Daniel to be endearing main characters. They were very likable. I adored Henry's good nature and how he chose not to regard the rumors surrounding Daniel. And I was in awe of Daniel’s passion for history and for the sweet action he did towards the end regarding the museum.
I enjoyed the attraction and connection Henry and Daniel had. The way they saw and treated one another was thoughtful and warm. Their love had a soft passion with a deep appreciation for each other. They made a lovely match.
I found Winter Days and Historical Gays to be a delightful read. I loved the academic vibes. And I adored the characters, one being Bradley. This was a sweet book with emotion and heart behind it. I look forward to reading more of Anouk de Rooij's future books.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
------
Content warning: mentioned abus!ve relationship, mention broken bones, and violence (minor).
-----
First book of series. This can be read as a standalone.
First person POV. Dual POV
Spice: low spice, 1
Ending: *spoiler*..........HEA
------
Winter Days and Historical Gays is an mm romance about a history professor and museum curator who share a love for history and for each other. If you want a cozy read with low spice and some academic vibes, consider reading this.
I found Henry and Daniel to be endearing main characters. They were very likable. I adored Henry's good nature and how he chose not to regard the rumors surrounding Daniel. And I was in awe of Daniel’s passion for history and for the sweet action he did towards the end regarding the museum.
I enjoyed the attraction and connection Henry and Daniel had. The way they saw and treated one another was thoughtful and warm. Their love had a soft passion with a deep appreciation for each other. They made a lovely match.
I found Winter Days and Historical Gays to be a delightful read. I loved the academic vibes. And I adored the characters, one being Bradley. This was a sweet book with emotion and heart behind it. I look forward to reading more of Anouk de Rooij's future books.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
November 10, 2024
The ARC was provided me by the author
I started tuning in for winter with this book, and I'm happy to report that it's a real cozy read which you can be lost in. A mug of tea (or coffee), a nice warm blanket, maybe fresh baked cookies, and the world can stop spinning, because for a few hours the reader simply becomes one with the small-town atmosphere, with the museum, with the love for history, with winter, and with love.
Daniel's long marriage comes to an ugly end when his ex-husband starts spreading fake gossip about him, and almost all the locals believe his every word without question. Daniel loses all his friends, withdraws, avoids his former favorite places, the city center, hardly leaves his house, lives only for his work and teaching, and does not even think of looking for love.
[...] love's just something that can break you, make you miserable.
Into his quiet life comes Henry, the curator of the local museum, who slowly breaks down the walls Daniel has been building for years and teaches him to trust, ask for things, and open his heart again, while they fight to keep the museum running.
I definitely have to point out how rare it is to come across such beautifully written kissing scenes like the ones in this book! They evoke butterflies in one's stomach. I loved them, especially the first one!
However, if you expect huge twists, you will be disappointed. If you expect the pages of this book to be full of spicy scenes, don't even start reading. If you're the type of person who always waits for that point in a book when everything goes wrong and falls apart, you're in a bit of a better position!
I particularly liked that, although the book takes place in winter, the focus is not on the holidays. But there is snow, lights, smells and a million emotions. I really liked it!
I've found the kind of love that people write poems about, a love that's worthy of marbled statues and boxes full of handwritten notes and letters.
Four and a half warm stars!
PS: I loved Bradley!
I started tuning in for winter with this book, and I'm happy to report that it's a real cozy read which you can be lost in. A mug of tea (or coffee), a nice warm blanket, maybe fresh baked cookies, and the world can stop spinning, because for a few hours the reader simply becomes one with the small-town atmosphere, with the museum, with the love for history, with winter, and with love.
Daniel's long marriage comes to an ugly end when his ex-husband starts spreading fake gossip about him, and almost all the locals believe his every word without question. Daniel loses all his friends, withdraws, avoids his former favorite places, the city center, hardly leaves his house, lives only for his work and teaching, and does not even think of looking for love.
[...] love's just something that can break you, make you miserable.
Into his quiet life comes Henry, the curator of the local museum, who slowly breaks down the walls Daniel has been building for years and teaches him to trust, ask for things, and open his heart again, while they fight to keep the museum running.
I definitely have to point out how rare it is to come across such beautifully written kissing scenes like the ones in this book! They evoke butterflies in one's stomach. I loved them, especially the first one!
However, if you expect huge twists, you will be disappointed. If you expect the pages of this book to be full of spicy scenes, don't even start reading. If you're the type of person who always waits for that point in a book when everything goes wrong and falls apart, you're in a bit of a better position!
I particularly liked that, although the book takes place in winter, the focus is not on the holidays. But there is snow, lights, smells and a million emotions. I really liked it!
I've found the kind of love that people write poems about, a love that's worthy of marbled statues and boxes full of handwritten notes and letters.
Four and a half warm stars!
PS: I loved Bradley!
January 26, 2025
A story that warms you from the inside.
"Only I didn't want a fairytale kind of romance. I wanted a love like they found throughout history, captured in paintings, hand written letters and painstakingly crafted sculptures. I wanted a love like Orpheus and Eurydice. Like Troy and Helen. Or even like the story of Odysseus and Penelope".
"Only I didn't want a fairytale kind of romance. I wanted a love like they found throughout history, captured in paintings, hand written letters and painstakingly crafted sculptures. I wanted a love like Orpheus and Eurydice. Like Troy and Helen. Or even like the story of Odysseus and Penelope".
December 1, 2024
Winter Days is a sweet seasonal romance. The small-town setting is charming and evokes a cozy feeling, but also leds itself to rumors and conflict to drive the plot.
This book is relatively low-angst despite discussing past abuse and trauma. While I do like the lower stakes, I did wish for more relationship development. There's a bit of insta-love going on, which I don't find as rewarding as a slower-burn.
I'm happy I got to check this book out for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
This book is relatively low-angst despite discussing past abuse and trauma. While I do like the lower stakes, I did wish for more relationship development. There's a bit of insta-love going on, which I don't find as rewarding as a slower-burn.
I'm happy I got to check this book out for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
December 2, 2024
This is a cosy, heartwarming winter book. It lives completely up to the expectations. It's easy to read with a good storyline. Chapter by chapter you fall in love with the main characters and the more you learn about them, the better it gets. This is the cozy winter book we all want when the weather gets worse and the days get shorter! Chapeau to the author for making it happen again!
November 16, 2024
Thank you to the author for sending a free advanced copy for an honest review.
This was a super sweet, cosy, easy read that’s perfect for the holiday season. Henry and Daniel were adorable together, and the way Henry helped Daniel through his trauma was beautiful to see.
I did find it a little Hallmark-sweet at times but I certainly enjoyed being able to switch off and get lost in their story. Henry was just the cutest I want to give him a great big hug 🥹
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- small town romance
- Cosy winter read
- Low angst high comfort
- Mental health rep
- Low spice
3.5 stars
This was a super sweet, cosy, easy read that’s perfect for the holiday season. Henry and Daniel were adorable together, and the way Henry helped Daniel through his trauma was beautiful to see.
I did find it a little Hallmark-sweet at times but I certainly enjoyed being able to switch off and get lost in their story. Henry was just the cutest I want to give him a great big hug 🥹
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- small town romance
- Cosy winter read
- Low angst high comfort
- Mental health rep
- Low spice
3.5 stars
November 25, 2024
Winter Days & Historical Gays by Anouk De Rooij is a charming small-town romance that follows Henry and Daniel as they navigate personal insecurities, a tumultuous past relationship, and the blossoming of something new and beautiful between them.
Set against the backdrop of a picturesque winter wonderland, the story centers on their shared mission to save their beloved local museum, a fight that brings the community together and deepens their connection. With its heartwarming characters, tender moments, and cozy atmosphere, this delightful tale will leave you feeling uplifted and wrapped in the comforting glow of love and second chances.
Set against the backdrop of a picturesque winter wonderland, the story centers on their shared mission to save their beloved local museum, a fight that brings the community together and deepens their connection. With its heartwarming characters, tender moments, and cozy atmosphere, this delightful tale will leave you feeling uplifted and wrapped in the comforting glow of love and second chances.
November 2, 2024
De Rooij does it again with her latest novel “Winter Days and Historical Gays”. This adorable small town romance is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold day with a blanket in bed until the very end. Henry Mitchell and Daniel Carter have incredible chemistry as they grow with one another and learn to open their lives to each other.
The academic setting offers so much grounding for the story and you find yourself rooting for Daniel as though you are one of his students. And Henry’s easy going personality is incredibly enjoyable to read - especially when he ruffles Daniel’s grumpy feathers. There are multiple moments where you can’t help but offer a sweet “aw” while reading this book and seeing how cute these two are.
De Rooij’s writing flows easily and paints vivid pictures of Heritage Hollow - I cannot wait to go back and read more about the other residents in future books.
The academic setting offers so much grounding for the story and you find yourself rooting for Daniel as though you are one of his students. And Henry’s easy going personality is incredibly enjoyable to read - especially when he ruffles Daniel’s grumpy feathers. There are multiple moments where you can’t help but offer a sweet “aw” while reading this book and seeing how cute these two are.
De Rooij’s writing flows easily and paints vivid pictures of Heritage Hollow - I cannot wait to go back and read more about the other residents in future books.
October 31, 2024
This is such a cozy read 🥰 there are some TW, so please check those before reading, but besides those “bad” parts, this book was so cute and you could feel the love coming off the pages! Daniel and Henry’s emotions just radiated throughout the book and I applaud the author for being able to portray those emotions so well! I’m not a huge Christmas fan, but have been trying to read more holiday books besides Halloween and I’m so glad I took a chance on this one!
November 4, 2024
●Winter Days and Historical Gays is the first book in a new seasonal series, set in the small-town of Heritage Hollow●
•MM •Age-gap (8 years) •Low angst
•Slow burn •Low Spice
Well, this was such a beautifully written heartwarming story about hope and love. It also encapsulated the whole small-mindedness of rural living.
Meet the characters >
~Daniel Carter is the stoical, divorced
Professor of History at the University. He has been shunned by the local community due to rumours of alleged abuse against his ex - Tom Lansey. He has never tried to disabuse this malicious gossip and lives an almost hermit-like existence on the outskirts of the town.
Conversely, all his students are attentive and respectful towards him, and he relishes this and comes to life in his lecture hall.
~Dr. Henry Mitchell is the dashing curator of the museum, who is outgoing and has many friends in the area. He, despite a few relationships, seems to believe that he is regarded as too flippant and light-hearted to fulfil his dream of finding a life partner.
Henry is very caring, protective, and nurturing, he is quick to stand up for his beliefs and against the mistreatment of Daniel by his friends.
"I wouldn’t be strung between two things I want most in life. Friendship and a life partner."
Due to financial difficulties, there is real danger of the museum closing unless the budget shortfall can be resolved. Henry is determined to prevent this happening.
These two were made for each other. Although very different in personality, they shared a love of not only history, but especially queer history, and bonded over their mutual need to preserve the museum for future generations.
Their friendship, understanding, and attraction grew the more time they spend working together to create the Valentine's Event and ensure its success. I adored how romantic they were to each other and could indulge in the simple delights around them.
Despite the machinations of Tom, the pompous treatment from the Town Council, and the misguided (albeit in good faith) meddling from Henry's friend Casey, can these two triumph?
Read this joyful book and all will be revealed.
♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎
My additional notes:-
Another perfect cover for a perfect story.
Brilliant cameos from Ash and Oliver - it was so lovely to meet up with them again.
I really enjoyed the fun moments with Bradley and Cooper (students).
•MM •Age-gap (8 years) •Low angst
•Slow burn •Low Spice
Well, this was such a beautifully written heartwarming story about hope and love. It also encapsulated the whole small-mindedness of rural living.
Meet the characters >
~Daniel Carter is the stoical, divorced
Professor of History at the University. He has been shunned by the local community due to rumours of alleged abuse against his ex - Tom Lansey. He has never tried to disabuse this malicious gossip and lives an almost hermit-like existence on the outskirts of the town.
Conversely, all his students are attentive and respectful towards him, and he relishes this and comes to life in his lecture hall.
~Dr. Henry Mitchell is the dashing curator of the museum, who is outgoing and has many friends in the area. He, despite a few relationships, seems to believe that he is regarded as too flippant and light-hearted to fulfil his dream of finding a life partner.
Henry is very caring, protective, and nurturing, he is quick to stand up for his beliefs and against the mistreatment of Daniel by his friends.
"I wouldn’t be strung between two things I want most in life. Friendship and a life partner."
Due to financial difficulties, there is real danger of the museum closing unless the budget shortfall can be resolved. Henry is determined to prevent this happening.
These two were made for each other. Although very different in personality, they shared a love of not only history, but especially queer history, and bonded over their mutual need to preserve the museum for future generations.
Their friendship, understanding, and attraction grew the more time they spend working together to create the Valentine's Event and ensure its success. I adored how romantic they were to each other and could indulge in the simple delights around them.
Despite the machinations of Tom, the pompous treatment from the Town Council, and the misguided (albeit in good faith) meddling from Henry's friend Casey, can these two triumph?
Read this joyful book and all will be revealed.
♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎♡♡♡♡♥︎
My additional notes:-
Another perfect cover for a perfect story.
Brilliant cameos from Ash and Oliver - it was so lovely to meet up with them again.
I really enjoyed the fun moments with Bradley and Cooper (students).
December 3, 2024
I had Alexa read this to me today and I think she failed me. This book was cute and super small town. For me their chemistry just didn’t hit right. I loved the professor/museum curator aspect but again I think I had too many things going on and was unable to get into this one today. Totally a me thing and not the author or book.
November 20, 2024
Thank you so much to the author for sending an ARC of this book. I have always loved museums so I was attracted to this book from the get-go. It’s perfect to read this holiday season if you’re looking to read something cozy.
3.5 stars ⭐️
3.5 stars ⭐️
January 22, 2025
A beautiful winter romance that’s very easy to read. You will definitely enjoy this book if you love dark academia and cosy seasonal vibes. Daniel’s and Henry’s personalities couldn’t be more different but they are still a perfect match. Their chemistry and endless support just warms your heart. I also appreciate Anouk writing about abuse, past traumas and most importantly about the healing process. This book just gives you hope.
Also loved the little Ash & Oliver cameo.
This is the first story of the Seasons In The Hollow series and I can’t wait for the next ones!
Also loved the little Ash & Oliver cameo.
This is the first story of the Seasons In The Hollow series and I can’t wait for the next ones!
November 26, 2024
First and foremost I want to thank the author, Anouk de Rooij, for providing me the ARC of this fluff of a novel.
Set in the cozy town of Heritage Hollow, it follows the lives of Daniel and Henry as a museum visit brings them together by chance.
As sparks fly, Henry helps Daniel let go of his painful past, get courage and face his abusive ex all the while coming up with a solution to save the only museum in the town.
I loved how the author balances the romance with themes like domestic abuse and shunning. The novel highlights some of the serious social issues faced by many in day to day lives but they don’t take away the focus from what this novel inherently is at its core, a sweet meant to be love story.
If you like low angst romance novels then this one is for you. This novel felt like a warm hug to me. It was a quick read with a cute ending. Completely recommended.
Set in the cozy town of Heritage Hollow, it follows the lives of Daniel and Henry as a museum visit brings them together by chance.
As sparks fly, Henry helps Daniel let go of his painful past, get courage and face his abusive ex all the while coming up with a solution to save the only museum in the town.
I loved how the author balances the romance with themes like domestic abuse and shunning. The novel highlights some of the serious social issues faced by many in day to day lives but they don’t take away the focus from what this novel inherently is at its core, a sweet meant to be love story.
If you like low angst romance novels then this one is for you. This novel felt like a warm hug to me. It was a quick read with a cute ending. Completely recommended.
November 11, 2024
messy (arc) review:
bradley <3
henry... don't say you're gonna kiss someone whether they want to our not... where is your sense of consent? (note to self don't complain about something before you've finished the chapter). henry does indeed know consent.
i was so ready for bradley or one of the other students to walk in on them during that first kiss.
is dorian gray the one with endless talk of wallpaper or stones? or does it have both? either way i was about to fall asleep reading it. it has some good moments though
aww ethan you sweet stupid little shit
screw casey and ethan i want bradley and cooper
while i do like oliver and ace's little appearance, it felt kinda out of place. maybe i have forgotten something from dftn (even if, a reminder would probably do well) but what? oliver and daniel are cousins? that just made it even more confusing because that seems like the kinda thing you would tell someone. maybe daniel decided to keep it secret from henry as a surprise at the dinner but it would've been nice for the reader to see daniel at least invite them.
bradley <3
henry... don't say you're gonna kiss someone whether they want to our not... where is your sense of consent? (note to self don't complain about something before you've finished the chapter). henry does indeed know consent.
i was so ready for bradley or one of the other students to walk in on them during that first kiss.
is dorian gray the one with endless talk of wallpaper or stones? or does it have both? either way i was about to fall asleep reading it. it has some good moments though
aww ethan you sweet stupid little shit
screw casey and ethan i want bradley and cooper
while i do like oliver and ace's little appearance, it felt kinda out of place. maybe i have forgotten something from dftn (even if, a reminder would probably do well) but what? oliver and daniel are cousins? that just made it even more confusing because that seems like the kinda thing you would tell someone. maybe daniel decided to keep it secret from henry as a surprise at the dinner but it would've been nice for the reader to see daniel at least invite them.
November 14, 2024
Daniel and Henry are a delight to read.
They found each other in their own special way and worked hard not onlyfor their relationship, but also for their wellbeing .
A book that warms your heart in its simplicity and where all the puzzle pieces just match.
The coziness of this book is filled with lovely kisses and a tightly knitted small town, once the truth is out.
I really loved the winter vibes of this book and the romance, which is filled with a lot of important, supportive moments.
I really loved the winter vibes of this book and the romance, which is filled with a lot of important, supportive moments.
They found each other in their own special way and worked hard not onlyfor their relationship, but also for their wellbeing .
A book that warms your heart in its simplicity and where all the puzzle pieces just match.
The coziness of this book is filled with lovely kisses and a tightly knitted small town, once the truth is out.
I really loved the winter vibes of this book and the romance, which is filled with a lot of important, supportive moments.
I really loved the winter vibes of this book and the romance, which is filled with a lot of important, supportive moments.
November 9, 2024
This was such a sweet, cozy story! I liked Daniel a lot, but Henry was definitely my favorite. His upbeat energy and positivity made him so easy to root for, and he brought a lot of warmth to the story. The chemistry between the two felt natural and oh, so adorable—it kept me hooked. Their first kiss was such a sweet moment!!
The whole book is just full of heart, and I enjoyed every page. If you like a romance with a good balance of cozy warmth and healing, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
The whole book is just full of heart, and I enjoyed every page. If you like a romance with a good balance of cozy warmth and healing, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
December 29, 2024
Sweet and cozy
Most of the book is sweet and cozy, a perfect winter (or anytime) read. There is a strong focus on spousal abuse and its consequences. It’s a clean/no spice book, with just kissing. Daniel and Henry are precious together, supporting each other through difficult situations while building a relationship. I enjoyed it very much.
Most of the book is sweet and cozy, a perfect winter (or anytime) read. There is a strong focus on spousal abuse and its consequences. It’s a clean/no spice book, with just kissing. Daniel and Henry are precious together, supporting each other through difficult situations while building a relationship. I enjoyed it very much.
December 13, 2024
I was looking forward to reading this story for a long time and really met my hugh expectations. Sweet and tender story. Two soft, smart, wise and mature men, but also fun. I enjoyed it a lot ❤️
November 17, 2024
“𝑵𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆’𝒔 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆.”
The story revolves around Daniel and Henry, trying to get into a relationship embracing the past.
"𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒂 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈"
The bond between Henry and Daniel is truly remarkable as they help each other heal. Their journey helps us understand how lonely they feel because of societal perceptions and how it impacts their mental health and personal growth.
"𝑮𝒐𝒅, 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒓.”
The character development is deep with intricate character development, showing us the complexities of human relationships. Towards the end, the protagonist learned to embrace their past and that paved the way for new relationships.
"𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒄 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒍𝒍, 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆.”
I love how the author described the museum scenes, as it provides historical value to the community and it also showcases their dedication to preserve it. I love the small town setting in the winter season that creates a cozy atmosphere.
The story revolves around Daniel and Henry, trying to get into a relationship embracing the past.
"𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒂 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈"
The bond between Henry and Daniel is truly remarkable as they help each other heal. Their journey helps us understand how lonely they feel because of societal perceptions and how it impacts their mental health and personal growth.
"𝑮𝒐𝒅, 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒓.”
The character development is deep with intricate character development, showing us the complexities of human relationships. Towards the end, the protagonist learned to embrace their past and that paved the way for new relationships.
"𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒄 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒍𝒍, 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆.”
I love how the author described the museum scenes, as it provides historical value to the community and it also showcases their dedication to preserve it. I love the small town setting in the winter season that creates a cozy atmosphere.
August 20, 2025
My first time reading this author and I have to admit her writing style is not for me. Touted as a cozy romance - it is indeed that, but I found my interest waning quite early on. The MCs are interesting enough but I found the road blocks / internal struggles used in keeping their romance arc alive / drawn out rather clunky. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
February 6, 2025
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
This is a really cute story, I was interested when the author said that the characters had vibes of Michael Sheen and David Tennant, and they were very sweet!
It's a nice cosy gentle story that is lovely for winter.
This is a really cute story, I was interested when the author said that the characters had vibes of Michael Sheen and David Tennant, and they were very sweet!
It's a nice cosy gentle story that is lovely for winter.
February 15, 2025
I can't wait for more seasons in the Hollow. Anouk takes us to Heritage Hollow to meet Daniel and Henry. Daniel is very well known but keeps to himself due to a public breakup and divorce from a well-liked/known man. It becomes clear quite quickly that this is all based on citizens drawing their own conclusions. It causes Daniel to become very insular and it destroys the way he sees himself as a man, lover and member of this community. He is an awesome professor who loves his students and is such a nerd, but it makes him extra special.Henry is quite the opposite, he's loud and thrives on organized chaos. When these too meet their an instant connection and chemistry but Daniel is convinced they can be nothing more than colleagues on a project. Henry is instantly smitten but worries about the perception of the town as to Daniel's character. As the men spend more and more time together it is evident that the town has Daniel COMPLETELY wrong, it is obvious the water was poisoned in his direction and he has little ability to change things. One thing that has changed is the way these men interact with one another, they've torn down some walls and find that sometimes you have to fight for heart and it is well worth it. When a major confrontation occurs in town featuring Daniel's ex, the town is flipped on its head as the lies they were fed become a truth in someone's villain story. Henry fights for his man, the museum and the love of HH. This was such a well written story and I have yet to find a story by this author I haven't enjoyed. I cannot wait to see what 2025 brings to my TBR.
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